What is B3 Paper Size
Definition
The B3 size is a popular format within the B-series of paper sizes defined by ISO 216, it still offers ample space for a variety of professional and artistic applications. In countries that follow the metric system, such as those in Europe, B3 is widely used in industries like printing, design, and architecture.
Dimensions
A piece of B3 paper measures 353 x 500 in mm, 35.3 x 50.0 in cm, and 13.90 x 19.69 in inches. This size is close to but still smaller than the standard Tabloid paper size or Ledger paper size, which measures 11×17 inches, but larger than the standard Letter size which measure is 8.5×11 inches, making it ideal for medium-scale prints and designs.
It offers a good balance between space and portability, providing enough area for detailed graphics and illustrations while still fitting into printers and other equipment more easily than larger B-series sizes.
Layout
Drawing of B3 paper size in inches and mm. It is 35.3 x 50.0 in cm.
Origin and Historical Context
Like the other sizes in the B-series, the B3 format originated from the German DIN 476 standard in the early 20th century. The system was created to standardize paper sizes across various industries and countries, making it easier to share and print documents internationally. The B-series of paper sizes follows the 1:√2 aspect ratio, which allows each size to be halved or doubled to maintain proportionality.
The B3 paper size fits neatly between B4 and B2 in terms of dimensions. It is a versatile size that can be used for both large-format printing and detailed work that requires a moderate level of space.
Uses of B3 Size
The size is commonly used in a variety of professional applications. Some of its key uses include:
- Large Posters: B3 is a popular size for creating large-format posters that need to make an impact in public spaces but don’t require the scale of a B2 or B1 size.
- Art and Photography: Artists and photographers use B3 for prints, as it offers enough space for high-quality images without being too large to handle or display.
- Architectural Drawings: While larger plans might use B2 or B1, the B3 paper size is still a viable option for medium-scale architectural plans, technical drawings, and diagrams.
- Magazines and Brochures: Some magazines, catalogs, and high-quality brochures use B3 for layout and design. Its size allows for both text and graphics to be clearly presented in a relatively compact format.
- Advertising: In advertising and marketing, B3 paper is frequently used for flyers, promotional posters, and event materials that need to stand out while remaining easy to distribute.
Regions of Use
In countries that have adopted the ISO 216 standard for paper sizes, including European countries and Asian countries, as well as in other parts of the world where ISO paper sizes are prevalent, B paper sizes are commonly used.
B3 Size in inches
13.90 x 19.69 in
B3 Size in cm
35.3 x 50.0 cm
B3 Size in mm
353 x 500 mm
B3 Dimensions Table
| Size # | in inches | in mm | in cm |
| B3 | 13.90 x 19.69 in | 353 x 500 mm | 35.3 x 50.0 cm |
B3 Dimensions in pixels
B3 dimensions vary in pixels, depending on the PPI/DPI applied.
| Size # |
72 dpi/ppi (screen resolution) |
96 dpi/ppi (screen resolution) |
300 dpi/ppi (print resolution) |
| B3 | 1001 x 1417 | 1334 x 1890 | 4169 x 5906 |
* PPI (pixels per inch) = DPI (dots per inch) = Resolution
Advantages & Disadvantages
Advantages
B3 paper size offers ample space for designs that demand bigger visual impact. For example, when creating a poster, using a larger canvas will allow designers to experiment more with various elements while ensuring that they’re all visible to the viewer. Additionally, the large size of the paper also makes it easier to read the text in fine print.
Disadvantages
B3 size may not be compatible with all printers. This is because most standard printers are designed to print on A4 or Letter paper sizes. Therefore, it might be challenging to find a printer that can handle B3 paper sizes.
B3 Size Equivalence in US
In the United States, there is no direct equivalent to the B3 paper size. However, similar dimensions in US standards include 13 x 19 inches or 12 x 18 inches, which are commonly used for large-format prints, posters, and some types of artwork. These sizes are somewhat similar in area and are often used interchangeably with B3 for printing purposes.
Main Facts
The B3 paper size, measuring 353 x 500 mm (13.9 x 19.7 inches), offers a practical solution for professionals in the printing, design, and art industries. It provides ample space for medium-scale prints while remaining manageable for various printing devices. Although there is no exact US equivalent, sizes like 13 x 19 inches are often used as substitutes. Understanding the B3 paper size is crucial for those working with large-format prints or needing a medium-sized option for posters, brochures, and more.